{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away","path":"/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away","title":"The Healing Power of Laughter","family":"Library detail","description":"Discover how laughter relieves stress, builds resilience, and enhances well-being with simple ways to incorporate it into daily life.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"public","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away","wordpressId":"5140","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/natalie-staats-reiss#person","name":"Natalie Staats Reiss, Ph.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/natalie-staats-reiss"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/patrick-nagle#person","name":"Patrick Nagle","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/patrick-nagle"}],"reviewer":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/jesse-hanson#person","name":"Jesse Hanson, Ph.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/jesse-hanson"},"dates":{"datePublished":"2025-02-19T09:18:41Z","dateModified":"2026-05-12T11:34:12Z","lastReviewed":"2025-02-19"},"content":{"html":"

The Healing Power of Laughter

Medically reviewed by Jesse Hanson, Ph.D.Written by Natalie Staats Reiss, Ph.D. and Patrick Nagle

Published on · Updated on

Laughter is more than just a reaction to something funny, it’s a natural and powerful way to improve overall well-being. Whether it’s the contagious giggle of a baby, a well-timed joke, or a shared moment of humor with friends, laughter has an impact on both mind and body. It relieves stress, strengthens relationships, and even contributes to long-term health benefits.

\"A laugh is such a pure thing. There's no opinion to it. Almost every other creative field has to suffer the interpretive opinion culture.\" – Jerry Seinfeld

\"A

Key takeaways

  • Laughter can provide stress relief and a temporary shift in perspective during difficult moments.
  • Shared humor can strengthen social connection and make interactions feel more positive.
  • Regular opportunities for enjoyable, appropriate humor may contribute to emotional resilience and well-being.

Finding Joy in a Busy World

In today’s fast-paced world, stress, anxiety, and daily pressures often dominate our thoughts, leaving little space for joy and lightheartedness. With so many responsibilities pulling our attention, laughter can sometimes feel like an afterthought.

Yet, understanding the science behind laughter can be a powerful tool for improving both mental and physical well-being. By making room for humor, we can create moments of relief, build resilience, and bring a sense of balance to even the busiest days.

The Physiological Effects of Laughter

Laughter triggers a series of physiological changes that benefit the body almost immediately. When you laugh, your heart rate and blood pressure rise temporarily, circulation improves, and your immune system becomes more active. The simple act of laughing increases oxygen intake, stimulates the skeletal muscles, and releases endorphins; the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals⁠[1].

Just as important is what happens after the laughter fades. As your body shifts from activity to recovery, your heart rate slows, blood pressure drops, and muscle tension eases. This natural relaxation response is similar to deep breathing or meditation, helping to lower stress hormones like cortisol and counteract the physical effects of stress and anxiety⁠[1].

Ways laughter improves physical health:

    \n
  • Start your day with humor – Watch a funny video, read a comic strip, or listen to a comedy podcast to set a positive tone.
    • \n
  • Engage in playful activities – Spend time with pets, play games, or do something lighthearted to keep your body and mind engaged.
    • \n
  • Try laughter exercises – Laughter yoga, which combines deep breathing with forced laughter, can trick the brain into releasing endorphins, even if the laughter starts out as intentional.
    • \n

Laughter as a Mental Reset

Beyond its physical benefits, laughter is a powerful psychological tool. It naturally relieves stress by releasing tension and shifting focus away from worries. When we laugh, the brain filters out negative thoughts while amplifying positive ones, gradually training the mind to lean toward optimism rather than dwelling on stress or setbacks⁠[3].

Laughter also shapes how we perceive challenges. Finding humor in difficult situations can lighten their emotional weight, making them feel less overwhelming. This shift not only supports a greater sense of control but also strengthens our ability to navigate stress in a healthier, more constructive way.

Using laughter for mental well-being:

    \n
  • Reframe problems with humor – Instead of letting stress take over, look for the absurdity or irony in situations.
    • \n
  • Surround yourself with funny people – Laughter is contagious, so spending time with people who make you laugh naturally boosts mood.
    • \n
  • Use humor as a coping strategy – When dealing with frustration, try to find something amusing about the situation rather than focusing on the negative.
    • \n

Laughter as a Bridge to Connection

Sharing a laugh can ease tension and help people feel connected. Mayo Clinic describes laughter as one practical way to support coping and relaxation. Choose humor that everyone involved can enjoy, while making space for serious conversations when they are needed. Stress relief from laughter? It’s no joke.

Beyond improving relationships, laughter also enhances emotional intelligence. It helps navigate social situations, ease conflicts, and create a sense of belonging. A shared joke or lighthearted moment can make difficult conversations easier and strengthen bonds over time. In both personal and professional settings, humor makes interactions more engaging, positive, and productive.

Laughter for better mental health and relationships:

    \n
  • Spend time with positive people – Surround yourself with those who bring humor and joy into daily life.
    • \n
  • Share funny moments – Watch a comedy, swap jokes, or reminisce about lighthearted memories with others.
    • \n
  • Laugh at yourself – Embracing life’s imperfections can make challenges feel less overwhelming.
    • \n

Subject matter expert

\"\"

Rick Hanson Ph.D.

Neuropsychology, mindfulness, and relationships

View profile

Long-Term Health Benefits of Laughter

Laughter creates lasting benefits for overall health. Research shows that it strengthens the immune system, supports heart health, and even increases pain tolerance. It also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for both diabetics and non-diabetics⁠[4].

Beyond physical health, laughter enhances cognitive function and job performance, particularly in creative roles. A lighthearted mindset promotes problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration, making laughter a valuable asset in both personal and professional life.

Bringing more laughter into daily life:

    \n
  • Keep a humor journal – Write down funny experiences or jokes you hear throughout the day. Revisiting them later can provide an instant mood boost.
    • \n
  • Laugh intentionally – Even forced laughter can trigger positive effects in the brain, so don’t hesitate to fake it until it becomes real.
    • \n
  • Make humor a daily habit – Whether it’s a funny podcast during your commute or a comedy special before bed, schedule laughter into your routine.
    • \n

Factors That Influence Laughter’s Effects

Not everyone experiences the benefits of laughter in the same way. Several factors influence its impact, including personality, sense of humor, and individual coping styles.

Some people turn to humor as a way to relieve stress, making laughter an effective emotional reset. Others, particularly those in high-pressure or stressful environments, may find humor harder to access, making laughter a less immediate source of relief.

Connecting with humor that feels natural and personally meaningful enhances its impact, creating a stronger emotional and psychological response. This makes laughter even more effective in supporting overall well-being

Maximizing laughter’s benefits:

    \n
  • Know your humor style – Whether it’s satire, absurdity, or observational humor, embrace what genuinely makes you laugh.
    • \n
  • Create a laughter-friendly environment – Surround yourself with people and content that encourage humor and playfulness.
    • \n
  • Be open to humor in unexpected places – Even serious situations can have moments of levity. Look for lightness wherever possible.
    • \n

Make Laughter a Daily Habit

The takeaway? Prioritize laughter as an essential part of self-care! Life will always present challenges, but a good laugh can provide the mental and physical reset needed to handle them with greater ease.

    \n
  • Seek out humor in daily life.
    • \n
  • Let yourself laugh freely and often.
    • \n
  • Find joy in small, unexpected moments.
    • \n

Laughter is a powerful tool for a healthier, more joyful life. Each laugh strengthens resilience, relieves stress, and adds a moment of lightness to the day. Life’s challenges will always be there, but embracing humor can shift your perspective, making obstacles feel smaller and more manageable.

Make laughter a daily habit. Seek out joy, welcome humor, and stay present in moments of lightheartedness. Whether it’s sharing a joke with a friend, reminiscing about a funny memory, or simply not taking yourself too seriously, laughter is always within reach.

So smile more, laugh often, and remember... life feels a little easier when you can find the joy in it!

References

  1. Hajar, Rachel. (2023). Laughter in Medicine. Heart Views, vol. 24, no. 1, 2023, pp. 42–46. PubMed Central. PubMed Central. Accessed February 10 2025.
  2. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Stress Relief from Laughter? It’s No Joke. Mayo Clinic, 29 July 2021. Mayo Clinic. Accessed October 10 2026.
  3. Kramer, Caroline Kaercher, and Cristiane Bauermann Leitao. (2023). Laughter as Medicine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Interventional Studies Evaluating the Impact of Spontaneous Laughter on Cortisol Levels. Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 14, 2023, Article 10204943. PubMed Central. PubMed Central. Accessed February 10 2025.
  4. Hirosaki, Mayumi, et al. (2024). Laughter Yoga as an Enjoyable Therapeutic Approach for Glycemic Control in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 14, 2024, Article 10102335. PubMed Central. PubMed Central. Accessed February 10 2025.

Medical Content

The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.

About MentalHealth.com

MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.

\"\"

Author

Natalie Staats Reiss, Ph.D.

Writer

Natalie Staats Reiss is a licensed psychologist in Ohio with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from West Virginia University. Her research focuses on healthy aging, stress, and burnout in hospice care staff, while her clinical expertise centers on the mental health needs of older adults and their caregivers.

Published
Updated
\"\"

Co-author

Patrick Nagle

Founder, CEO

Patrick Nagle is an accomplished tech entrepreneur and venture investor. Driven by personal and professional experience, he is committed to building a better mental health system.

Published
Updated
\"\"

Medical Reviewer

Jesse Hanson, Ph.D.

Clinical Affairs Director

Jesse Hanson, Ph.D., is a somatic psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in clinical psychology and neuropsychology.

Reviewed
\"\"

Related community

Emotional Health

Explore feelings, self-awareness, and the emotional experiences that shape everyday life.

","text":"Home Library Self-Care The Healing Power of Laughter The Healing Power of Laughter Medically reviewed by Jesse Hanson, Ph.D.Written by Natalie Staats Reiss, Ph.D. and Patrick Nagle Published on February 19, 2025 · Updated on May 12, 2026 Laughter is more than just a reaction to something funny, it’s a natural and powerful way to improve overall well-being. Whether it’s the contagious giggle of a baby, a well-timed joke, or a shared moment of humor with friends, laughter has an impact on both mind and body. It relieves stress, strengthens relationships, and even contributes to long-term health benefits. \"A laugh is such a pure thing. There's no opinion to it. Almost every other creative field has to suffer the interpretive opinion culture.\" – Jerry Seinfeld Key takeaways Laughter can provide stress relief and a temporary shift in perspective during difficult moments. Shared humor can strengthen social connection and make interactions feel more positive. Regular opportunities for enjoyable, appropriate humor may contribute to emotional resilience and well-being. Finding Joy in a Busy World In today’s fast-paced world, stress, anxiety, and daily pressures often dominate our thoughts, leaving little space for joy and lightheartedness. With so many responsibilities pulling our attention, laughter can sometimes feel like an afterthought. Yet, understanding the science behind laughter can be a powerful tool for improving both mental and physical well-being. By making room for humor, we can create moments of relief, build resilience, and bring a sense of balance to even the busiest days. The Physiological Effects of Laughter Laughter triggers a series of physiological changes that benefit the body almost immediately. When you laugh, your heart rate and blood pressure rise temporarily, circulation improves, and your immune system becomes more active. The simple act of laughing increases oxygen intake, stimulates the skeletal muscles, and releases endorphins; the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals⁠[1]. Just as important is what happens after the laughter fades. As your body shifts from activity to recovery, your heart rate slows, blood pressure drops, and muscle tension eases. This natural relaxation response is similar to deep breathing or meditation, helping to lower stress hormones like cortisol and counteract the physical effects of stress and anxiety⁠[1]. Ways laughter improves physical health: Start your day with humor – Watch a funny video, read a comic strip, or listen to a comedy podcast to set a positive tone. Engage in playful activities – Spend time with pets, play games, or do something lighthearted to keep your body and mind engaged. Try laughter exercises – Laughter yoga, which combines deep breathing with forced laughter, can trick the brain into releasing endorphins, even if the laughter starts out as intentional. Laughter as a Mental Reset Beyond its physical benefits, laughter is a powerful psychological tool. It naturally relieves stress by releasing tension and shifting focus away from worries. When we laugh, the brain filters out negative thoughts while amplifying positive ones, gradually training the mind to lean toward optimism rather than dwelling on stress or setbacks⁠[3]. Laughter also shapes how we perceive challenges. Finding humor in difficult situations can lighten their emotional weight, making them feel less overwhelming. This shift not only supports a greater sense of control but also strengthens our ability to navigate stress in a healthier, more constructive way. Using laughter for mental well-being: Reframe problems with humor – Instead of letting stress take over, look for the absurdity or irony in situations. Surround yourself with funny people – Laughter is contagious, so spending time with people who make you laugh naturally boosts mood. Use humor as a coping strategy – When dealing with frustration, try to find something amusing about the situation rather than focusing on the negative. Laughter as a Bridge to Connection Sharing a laugh can ease tension and help people feel connected. Mayo Clinic describes laughter as one practical way to support coping and relaxation. Choose humor that everyone involved can enjoy, while making space for serious conversations when they are needed. Stress relief from laughter? It’s no joke. Beyond improving relationships, laughter also enhances emotional intelligence. It helps navigate social situations, ease conflicts, and create a sense of belonging. A shared joke or lighthearted moment can make difficult conversations easier and strengthen bonds over time. In both personal and professional settings, humor makes interactions more engaging, positive, and productive. Laughter for better mental health and relationships: Spend time with positive people – Surround yourself with those who bring humor and joy into daily life. Share funny moments – Watch a comedy, swap jokes, or reminisce about lighthearted memories with others. Laugh at yourself – Embracing life’s imperfections can make challenges feel less overwhelming. Subject matter expert Rick Hanson Ph.D. Neuropsychology, mindfulness, and relationships View profile Long-Term Health Benefits of Laughter Laughter creates lasting benefits for overall health. Research shows that it strengthens the immune system, supports heart health, and even increases pain tolerance. It also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for both diabetics and non-diabetics⁠[4]. Beyond physical health, laughter enhances cognitive function and job performance, particularly in creative roles. A lighthearted mindset promotes problem-solving, adaptability, and collaboration, making laughter a valuable asset in both personal and professional life. Bringing more laughter into daily life: Keep a humor journal – Write down funny experiences or jokes you hear throughout the day. Revisiting them later can provide an instant mood boost. Laugh intentionally – Even forced laughter can trigger positive effects in the brain, so don’t hesitate to fake it until it becomes real. Make humor a daily habit – Whether it’s a funny podcast during your commute or a comedy special before bed, schedule laughter into your routine. Factors That Influence Laughter’s Effects Not everyone experiences the benefits of laughter in the same way. Several factors influence its impact, including personality, sense of humor, and individual coping styles. Some people turn to humor as a way to relieve stress, making laughter an effective emotional reset. Others, particularly those in high-pressure or stressful environments, may find humor harder to access, making laughter a less immediate source of relief. Connecting with humor that feels natural and personally meaningful enhances its impact, creating a stronger emotional and psychological response. This makes laughter even more effective in supporting overall well-being Maximizing laughter’s benefits: Know your humor style – Whether it’s satire, absurdity, or observational humor, embrace what genuinely makes you laugh. Create a laughter-friendly environment – Surround yourself with people and content that encourage humor and playfulness. Be open to humor in unexpected places – Even serious situations can have moments of levity. Look for lightness wherever possible. Make Laughter a Daily Habit The takeaway? Prioritize laughter as an essential part of self-care! Life will always present challenges, but a good laugh can provide the mental and physical reset needed to handle them with greater ease. Seek out humor in daily life. Let yourself laugh freely and often. Find joy in small, unexpected moments. Laughter is a powerful tool for a healthier, more joyful life. Each laugh strengthens resilience, relieves stress, and adds a moment of lightness to the day. Life’s challenges will always be there, but embracing humor can shift your perspective, making obstacles feel smaller and more manageable. Make laughter a daily habit. Seek out joy, welcome humor, and stay present in moments of lightheartedness. Whether it’s sharing a joke with a friend, reminiscing about a funny memory, or simply not taking yourself too seriously, laughter is always within reach. So smile more, laugh often, and remember... life feels a little easier when you can find the joy in it! References Hajar, Rachel. (2023). Laughter in Medicine. Heart Views, vol. 24, no. 1, 2023, pp. 42–46. PubMed Central. PubMed Central. Accessed February 10 2025. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Stress Relief from Laughter? It’s No Joke. Mayo Clinic, 29 July 2021. Mayo Clinic. Accessed October 10 2026. Kramer, Caroline Kaercher, and Cristiane Bauermann Leitao. (2023). Laughter as Medicine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Interventional Studies Evaluating the Impact of Spontaneous Laughter on Cortisol Levels. Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 14, 2023, Article 10204943. PubMed Central. PubMed Central. Accessed February 10 2025. Hirosaki, Mayumi, et al. (2024). Laughter Yoga as an Enjoyable Therapeutic Approach for Glycemic Control in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 14, 2024, Article 10102335. PubMed Central. PubMed Central. Accessed February 10 2025. Medical Content The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy. About MentalHealth.com MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life. Author Natalie Staats Reiss, Ph.D. Writer Natalie Staats Reiss is a licensed psychologist in Ohio with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from West Virginia University. Her research focuses on healthy aging, stress, and burnout in hospice care staff, while her clinical expertise centers on the mental health needs of older adults and their caregivers. Published February 19, 2025 Updated May 12, 2026 Co-author Patrick Nagle Founder, CEO Patrick Nagle is an accomplished tech entrepreneur and venture investor. Driven by personal and professional experience, he is committed to building a better mental health system. Published February 19, 2025 Updated May 12, 2026 Medical Reviewer Jesse Hanson, Ph.D. Clinical Affairs Director Jesse Hanson, Ph.D., is a somatic psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in clinical psychology and neuropsychology. Reviewed February 19, 2025 Related community Emotional Health Explore feelings, self-awareness, and the emotional experiences that shape everyday life. Table of contentsChoose a section Finding Joy in a Busy World The Physiological Effects of Laughter Laughter as a Mental Reset Laughter as a Bridge to Connection Long-Term Health Benefits of Laughter Factors That Influence Laughter’s Effects Make Laughter a Daily Habit View more","wordCount":1678},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","publishingPrinciples":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#website","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Self-Care","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/self-care"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"The Healing Power of Laughter","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away#primaryimage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/6a185c3c28405e033c47cfaa.webp","contentUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/6a185c3c28405e033c47cfaa.webp","width":1200,"height":800,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"A person stretches their arms toward the sunlight from a sofa."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/natalie-staats-reiss#person","name":"Natalie Staats Reiss, Ph.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/natalie-staats-reiss","jobTitle":"Writer","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/f740e834778e6cf83ef499f0.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-staats-reiss-b1984914/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing#department"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/patrick-nagle#person","name":"Patrick Nagle","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/patrick-nagle","jobTitle":"Founder, CEO","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/8af2743f6b0f153fa8424143.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricknagle/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/leadership#department"},{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/digital-operations#department"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/jesse-hanson#person","name":"Jesse Hanson, Ph.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/jesse-hanson","jobTitle":"Clinical Affairs Director","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/73305651cb93afbdebb69a9a.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-hanson-phd-7215216/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"},{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/leadership#department"}]},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away#article","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away","headline":"The Healing Power of Laughter","description":"Discover how laughter relieves stress, builds resilience, and enhances well-being with simple ways to incorporate it into daily life.","wordCount":1220,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/laughing-each-day-helps-keep-the-doctor-away#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"articleSection":"Self-Care","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Hajar, Rachel. 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